Wild foot prints 12 days safari

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative; your host in Kenya. Welcome to Nairobi, a vibrant city undergoing a cultural and artistic renaissance. After a brief introduction, you’ll be transferred to the charming Hemingways Nairobi for a restful start to your journey.

HEMINGWAYS NAIROBI

A serene retreat in the heart of the city, Hemingways Nairobi is a five-star boutique hotel redefining luxury in Kenya’s capital. With just 45 expansive suites, this plantation-style haven offers space, light, and timeless elegance — each suite measuring 80m² and opening onto a private balcony with sweeping views of the Ngong Hills.

From the moment you arrive, our personalised service sets the tone. A dedicated butler attends to your every preference — from your choice of tea to how your clothes are pressed — ensuring effortless comfort throughout your stay.

Whether you’re unwinding in the spa, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a quiet stroll through the gardens, every detail is anticipated. Back in your suite, lights are dimmed, pillows just right, your nightcap waiting, and tomorrow’s plans seamlessly arranged.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your scheduled flight to the remote and breathtaking Loisaba Conservancy in northern Laikipia. Enjoy scenic aerial views of Kenya’s diverse landscapes as you fly northward.

Upon arrival at Loisaba Airstrip, you’ll be met by your guide and taken on a game drive en route to your lodge or camp, offering your first glimpse of the region’s stunning wilderness. Settle in, enjoy lunch, and spend the afternoon exploring the conservancy or relaxing before an evening game drive.

LOISABA TENTED CAMP

Set within the stunning Loisaba Conservancy in northern Laikipia, Loisaba Tented Camp offers an exceptional safari experience where luxury meets wilderness. The camp is perched dramatically on the edge of an escarpment, offering sweeping, uninterrupted views across the vast Laikipia plains all the way to Mount Kenya.

Loisaba Conservancy itself is a private reserve renowned for its raw beauty and as a vital wildlife corridor—especially for migrating elephants. It’s a haven for big game, endangered species, and birdlife, offering intimate wildlife encounters in a landscape as diverse as it is dramatic.

Loisaba Tented Camp is the epitome of African elegance. Each spacious tented suite is custom-designed with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, high ceilings, and polished wooden floors. Interiors blend contemporary European styling with classic African design, ensuring both comfort and character.

The camp’s central areas are open and inviting, including a panoramic dining area, stylish lounge and bar, and an expansive wooden deck perfect for al fresco meals or unwinding with a drink in hand. One of the camp’s highlights is its spectacular infinity pool—one of the most scenic in Africa—where guests can soak in the serenity while watching wildlife below.

After a relaxing afternoon at the lodge, enjoy freshly brewed tea or coffee served with light snacks. Your guide will provide a short briefing on the afternoon game drive, covering safety tips and wildlife expectations.

Set off in a custom-designed open-sided 4×4 safari vehicle into the vast wilderness of Loisaba Conservancy. The golden afternoon light creates perfect conditions for wildlife viewing and photography.

Loisaba’s strategic location along a vital elephant migration corridor offers excellent chances to spot herds of elephants, Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and perhaps even wild dogs. Your expert guide will interpret the ecosystem and help track elusive species.

As you continue your drive, look out for predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards, often active during the cooler hours of late afternoon.

Spend a full day exploring the vast Loisaba Conservancy, a pristine 57,000-acre wilderness rich in wildlife, dramatic scenery, and adventure. Activities are tailored to your interests and fitness level.

Game Drives
Explore the conservancy by open vehicle with expert Samburu guides. Spot elephants, lions, Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and abundant birdlife. Drives may follow the riverbanks, cross open plains, or venture into the bush.

Walking Safaris
Experience the land up close with a guided bush walk. Learn about animal tracks, plants, and local traditions from knowledgeable Samburu trackers.

Camel Safaris
Take a scenic camel ride across the plains—a traditional and peaceful way to enjoy the landscape.

Horse Riding
Ride among wildlife for a thrilling perspective. Loisaba’s well-trained horses allow close, calm encounters with animals. Suitable for confident riders only.

Mountain Biking
For a dose of adventure, cycle down the escarpment or along scenic trails with your guide.

Cultural Visit
Visit a nearby Samburu village to learn about their way of life, music, beadwork, and traditions.

Fishing
Seasonal fishing in rivers and dams is available with both modern and traditional gear.

Each experience is crafted to immerse you in the beauty and biodiversity of Loisaba—off the beaten path and away from crowds.

This morning, we board a scenic flight to the legendary homelands of the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations.

Upon arrival, we embark on our first game viewing drive across the sweeping plains of this world-renowned reserve. The Maasai Mara is a breathtaking landscape of open savannahs, meandering rivers, seasonal marshes, and patches of riverine forest—all teeming with life.

Covering 650 square kilometers, the reserve boasts one of the highest densities of wildlife anywhere in Africa. During the Great Migration season, up to a million wildebeest and large herds of zebra make their dramatic entrance from the neighboring Serengeti in Tanzania, offering an unforgettable wildlife spectacle.

The Maasai Mara is home to all of Africa’s iconic “Big Five” — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — as well as a rich array of other species such as cheetah, jackal, eland, baboon, ostrich, and the elusive bat-eared fox. The Mara River and its tributaries are alive with crocodiles and pods of hippos, adding to the drama of the landscape.

With its remarkable biodiversity and ever-changing scenery, the Maasai Mara offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. Expect an awe-inspiring introduction to this wild and vibrant ecosystem.

SANDRIVER MARA CAMP

Set on the serene banks of its namesake river, Sand River Masai Mara lies within the Masai Mara National Reserve, near the Tanzanian border. Its secluded and scenic location captures the romance and nostalgia of the 1920s golden era of safari, with interiors, fixtures, and furnishings that perfectly evoke the style of those classic African adventures immortalized in Hollywood films.

A year-round safari destination, Sand River offers exceptional game-viewing right on its doorstep. The Masai Mara is famed for its thriving populations of big cats—lion, leopard, and cheetah—while the dramatic spectacle of the Great Migration adds to an already rich variety of resident wildlife.

The camp features 16 luxurious tented suites, including one family tent, arranged into two separate yet adjoining sites. Each has its own dining and lounge areas, creating an enhanced sense of privacy and exclusivity for guests.

With its elegant design, outstanding service, and a location chosen for its proximity to unparalleled wildlife encounters, Elewana Sand River Masai Mara embodies everything that makes the Elewana Collection a premier name in East African safaris. Here, the magic of the Mara unfolds in timeless style.

Immersive Days in the Maasai Mara

Safari Game Drives • Hot Air Ballooning • Sundowners • Bush Dining • Cultural Encounters

Vast, untamed, and teeming with life, the Maasai Mara offers one of the most unforgettable safari experiences on the continent. With its gently rolling hills, acacia-dotted plains, and ever-changing light, this iconic reserve sets the stage for moments of wonder — where predator and prey meet, migrations unfold, and every game drive offers a new story from the wild.

Game Drives Through the Heart of the Wild

Begin your days with early morning and afternoon game drives, when the bush is most active and alive. This is the quintessential African safari, where travellers can expect to encounter large herds of elephants, buffalo, zebras, and countless other plains game. Predator sightings are common — from stealthy leopards in the trees to lion prides basking in the morning light. The Mara is renowned for its black-maned lions, cheetahs in hot pursuit, and even elusive rhino if luck is on your side.

From July to November, the reserve becomes the stage for the Great Wildebeest Migration — nature’s greatest spectacle. Over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles thunder across the plains, driven by rain and instinct. Their perilous river crossings, with crocodiles lying in wait and predators trailing behind, offer unforgettable drama and raw natural beauty.

Yet even outside the migration months, the Mara remains rich with wildlife year-round. Resident species fill every valley and waterhole, ensuring game drives that are rewarding no matter the season.

A Breath Above the Savannah – Hot Air Balloon Safari

For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime view, a hot air balloon safari at sunrise is an unforgettable way to greet the day (optional, at extra cost). Drift silently above the Mara as the plains stretch endlessly below, dotted with wildlife moving through golden morning light. Glide past treetops, scan riverbanks, and watch giraffes, elephants, and gazelles from above — all while wrapped in complete silence and awe. After touching down, celebrate with a champagne breakfast in the heart of the bush.

Sundowners on the Escarpment

As the day winds down, there’s no better way to soak in the magic of the Mara than with a sundowner drink atop the Oloololo Escarpment, where the landscape unfolds in sweeping panoramic views. Sip a chilled gin and tonic, champagne, or your cocktail of choice as the horizon glows orange and the sounds of the bush change — birds quiet, herbivores retreat, and nocturnal predators stir. It’s a soulful moment of stillness, reflection, and connection with the land.

The Essence of Bush Dining

Dining in the Mara is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. Whether it’s a breakfast by the Mara River, a picnic lunch on the plains, or a candlelit dinner under the stars, bush dining evokes the spirit of early explorers and heightens every sense. Enjoy expertly prepared cuisine in wild, remote settings: perhaps by a hippo-filled riverbank or beneath the twinkling stars, serenaded by the sounds of crickets and distant lions. A fireside gathering may follow, with local music or storytelling under the African night sky.

Cultural Encounters – A Visit to a Maasai Village

No visit to the Maasai Mara is complete without connecting to its people. Join an authentic cultural visit to a nearby Maasai village, accompanied by a guide who is part of the community. Discover their semi-nomadic traditions, colourful dress, and daily rituals — from cattle herding to the crafting of intricate beadwork. Enjoy traditional singing and dancing, and explore the Maasai Craft Centre where all proceeds support local livelihoods. This cultural immersion offers a rare window into one of Africa’s most iconic and enduring communities.

Optional Activities Available (at additional cost):
• Hot Air Balloon Safari
• Bush Breakfast or Dinner
• Visit to a Traditional Maasai Village
• Sundowners
• Cultural Performances

Whether soaring above the plains at dawn, dining beneath a starlit sky, or quietly observing lions from your game vehicle, your days in the Maasai Mara promise a rich blend of thrill, serenity, and awe — a true celebration of Africa’s wilderness and spirit.

After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to airstrip for your scenic flight south to the world-famous Serengeti National Park. Soar over the Great Rift Valley and endless plains as you leave the foothills of Mount Meru behind and head into the heart of Tanzania’s wildlife-rich wilderness.

Upon arrival at the airstrip in the Serengeti, you’ll be met by your guide and begin your first game drive en route to your camp, offering a thrilling introduction to the park’s vast landscapes and incredible wildlife.

Expect to see herds of wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, elephant, and possibly your first sightings of big cats like lions or cheetahs. The Serengeti is especially renowned for its open savannahs, dramatic predator-prey encounters, and the sheer density of wildlife.

Arrive at your camp in time for lunch and a bit of relaxation, followed by an afternoon game drive that takes you deeper into the park.

Return to camp in the early evening for dinner and a fireside chat under the stars — your Serengeti adventure has truly begun.

LEMALA NANYUKIE LODGE

Luxury Under Canvas at Lemala Nanyukie

With graceful canvas walls, soaring tented ceilings, and expansive hardwood decks, Lemala Nanyukie combines contemporary elegance with the timeless romance of safari living. The interiors are airy and refined—crisp whites and soft neutrals enriched with textured accents, plush upholstery, handcrafted wooden furnishings, and perfectly placed lighting.

Fifteen luxurious suites (13 standard and one two-bedroom family suite) are set well apart for total privacy. Each offers an oversized bed, spacious lounge, and indulgent bathroom with double vanity, indoor and outdoor showers, and a freestanding bathtub. Step outside to your private deck with sunken seating, an outdoor shower, and a corner plunge pool overlooking the endless Serengeti plains.

The lodge’s striking main area features a welcoming lounge and bar, a panoramic viewing deck, a swimming pool, and both indoor and open-air dining spaces. Thoughtful touches—like sunrise bush breakfasts, lantern-lit dinners, and evenings by the campfire—make every day feel unforgettable. For deep relaxation, a secluded spa tent rests quietly among the acacia trees.

Opened in October 2018, Lemala Nanyukie delivers the same exceptional comfort, style, and service found across Lemala’s celebrated portfolio, including Lemala Kuria Hills in the Serengeti, Lemala Mpingo Ridge in Tarangire, and Hamerkop House in Arusha.

Full Days in the Bush – Serengeti

A full day on safari is the ultimate way to experience the wonders of the Serengeti. After breakfast in your tent or the restaurant, set off around 7 a.m. in a fully equipped 4×4 Landcruiser, traversing the endless plains in search of wildlife. With a hat, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure, you’ll spend the day spotting, photographing, and marvelling at nature’s drama.

Your expert driver-guide and Kuria spotter—blessed with extraordinary eyesight—reveal hidden treasures that most would miss. During the migration, a packed lunch keeps you mobile for spontaneous river-crossing sightings; at other times, lunch is enjoyed under the shade of an acacia tree.

Year-Round Game Drives
With lodges in prime wildlife areas across Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Serengeti, Lemala offers unrivalled access to Tanzania’s Northern Circuit. Our open game-drive vehicles and highly trained guides ensure spectacular sightings in every season.

Balloon Safari
Drift silently above the Serengeti at sunrise, following the wind over herds of wildebeest, stalking lions, and endless golden plains. Conclude this once-in-a-lifetime flight with a champagne bush breakfast.

Walking Safaris
Step away from the vehicle and explore the Serengeti on foot. In the company of expert guides, your senses sharpen as you encounter wildlife up close in habitats ranging from open grasslands and rocky kopjes to tree-lined watercourses. Every walk is tailored to your pace and interests, offering a deeper connection to the wilderness.

After breakfast, we set out by road for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. The journey takes you through the vast, ever-changing landscapes of northern Tanzania, where the sweeping plains give way to dramatic escarpments and the shimmering expanse of the Great Rift Valley.

As we ascend into the highlands, the air cools and the scenery shifts—rolling farmland, vibrant coffee plantations, and lush, mist-shrouded forests line the route. Eventually, the road brings you to the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, where breathtaking views stretch across this ancient volcanic caldera.

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed at your lodge and escorted to your room. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy—breathe in the crisp mountain air, take in uninterrupted vistas of the crater, or unwind by the roaring fireplace.

Dinner and overnight at the lodge, resting up for tomorrow’s unforgettable crater descent and game viewing adventure.

LEMALA OSONJOI Luxury at the Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Perfectly positioned near the Lemala Gate – a gentler access route offering game-viewing opportunities along the way – Lemala Osonjoi blends elegance, space, and warmth in one of the world’s most spectacular locations.

The suites here are among the most spacious in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, each featuring a king-size bed and thoughtful touches to keep you cozy on cool crater-rim nights. Expect a slow-burning wood stove, plush winter-weight duvets, and hot water bottles to ensure restful sleep. Expansive picture windows frame tranquil views of the surrounding forest, just set back from the crater’s rim, while flooding the interiors with the soft light of the Ngorongoro Highlands.

Each en-suite bathroom boasts a dressing area, flush toilet, and generous walk-in shower. The 20 luxurious guest suites (16 standard and two two-bedroom units) are set well apart for privacy. Triples are available on request, and the two-bedroom suites are ideal for families or friends traveling together. Features include oversized beds, spacious lounges, double vanities, indoor showers, and free-standing bathtubs. A charming ‘secret nook’—complete with a daybed—offers the perfect hideaway to unwind with a book, a glass of red wine, or a steaming hot chocolate after a thrilling day on safari.

The main double-volume area houses a welcoming lounge and bar, an outdoor viewing deck with a roaring fire, and access to an indoor heated swimming pool.

Uniquely, Lemala Osonjoi is one of the few Ngorongoro properties permitted to serve fully catered lunches at a private site on the crater floor. This special privilege allows guests to spend an entire day exploring the crater in comfort and style—turning a remarkable safari into an unforgettable celebration.

After an early breakfast at the lodge, depart with your packed lunch boxes for a full-day adventure in the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater — one of Africa’s most spectacular and wildlife-rich safari destinations.

Descend approximately 600 meters to the crater floor and begin exploring this vast natural amphitheatre. Often referred to as the “eighth wonder of the world,” the Ngorongoro Crater is home to an incredible density of wildlife, set against a backdrop of diverse and dramatic landscapes.

Spend the day tracking a wide range of species across the crater’s varied habitats — from open grasslands to swamps and acacia forests. Highlights include:

• Big Cats & Predators: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas
• Large Mammals: Elephants, buffalos, wildebeests, zebras, elands, gazelles, giraffes, antelopes
• Rare Species: A chance to spot the endangered black rhino
• Birdlife: Flamingos and other waterbirds around Lake Magadi

Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic, designated sites within the crater, surrounded by nature and sweeping views.

After a full day of exceptional game viewing and photography, ascend back to the crater rim and return to the lodge by late afternoon.

After an early breakfast, we bid farewell to the Ngorongoro and transfer to the nearby airstrip for your scenic scheduled flight to Arusha. As you soar above the plains, enjoy your final sweeping views of Tanzania’s iconic wilderness.

On arrival at Arusha Airport, you’ll be met by our representative and transferred to a hotel, lodge, or restaurant, depending on your onward plans. Take time to relax, freshen up, or browse for souvenirs.Later, you’ll be driven to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home, bringing your unforgettable East African safari to a close.